ALA Spotlight on Lori DiCesare,
President and CEO of Legal Placements, Inc.

January 2009

In celebration of a new year, the ALA had the pleasure of catching up with Washington, DC's ubiquitous and delightful Lori DiCesare, President and CEO of Legal Placements, Inc. Lori was gracious enough to engage us in a chat about what 2009 holds for her and the legal industry - we also snuck in a few personal questions for good measure.

ALA:A few questions for you about our current economy and the future of the legal arena-I'm asking you to look into your crystal ball and make a few predictions: What practice areas do you expect will pick-up in 2009 during this economic crisis?

LORI: I predict the environmental, healthcare and bankruptcy sectors will gain steam in 2009. We are starting to see bankruptcy litigation come to fruition as a result of cases catching up with to day's reality. This sector will maintain strong momentum in the years 2009-2011, as law firms are ratcheting-up their efforts to represent these troubled companies.

ALA:Are law fimls positioned well for this time period?

LORI: I think most firms were anticipating slow downs and made the necessary adjustments accordingly like those who down-sized in 2008, for example, are running lean and mean. 2009 will bring a tremendous amount of attention to controlling and cutting costs-even if it means reducing bill rates with greater billable hour expectations. Controlling costs through the litigation process is another way to do business today-this process should be scrutinized from start to finish. LPI offers its clients a succinct look at what they are buying-from the appropriate technology expert, to the actual management of the document production, to the off-site document review center. LPI is known for our extremely competitive rates; however, we are still able to get the very best talent via a highly "incentivized" and expansive referral network. LPIs' clients know their contractors have been vetted through a stringent background process each and every time. To differentiate our service, we do our best to let our contractors know how much we appreciate their efforts. We offer sign-on and completion bonuses depending on the nature of the project. We are ultimately responsible for honoring our commitments in the most efficient and effective manner through accountability and a sense of urgency.

ALA:Can you tell me what additional legal work will arise from this economic crisis?

LORI: I think TARP work, securities enforcement, litigation and regulatory work in general will arise from the current state of the union. I also read in a Kiplinger Letter that 2009 may become remembered as "the year of the lawyer". The Kiplinger Letter explained that this is because contracts finalized years ago, will be given a second look as lenders find ways to reopen deals. This way they can call-in outstanding loans or raised interest rates. There is an assumption out there-almost anything that can be contested will be-and with vigor.

ALA:What "hot" areas will surface during the Obama administration?

LORI: You know what, it is important to focus on the issues the election put forth, as well as the promises which were made in the process. Healthcare, renewable energy, administrative law, FDA and international work will surface as a result. What do you see for the legal staffing industry in 2009? I see a trend of consolidation, as well as drawing more focus on contractors-less on M&A work and more on litigation. I still believe the staffing market is fundamentally relationship-based. You have to have the "best product" out there-your people; however, you cannot put a price tag on a strong partnership of mutual trust and respect.

ALA:Any immediate changes at your company to make the best out of the current economic crisis?

LORI: We are operating with the utmost efficiency possible, and we will continue to do so as the year moves forward. During times like these, you have to take a hard look at your staff. Although there are incredibly difficult decisions to make-you have to stay focused on business and what each employee means to my company in terms of "output" and productivity. I look for team players and 'Jack and Jill's of all trades". I feel lucky to have my stellar staff!

ALA:Can you tell me when the crisis will end, and better yet, when law firms will rebound?

LORI: Wow, this is a $64,000 question!! The current economic recovery will be characterized by a quick rise in productivity; by doing more for less. With a new administration in place, I anticipate a much stronger 3rd and 4th quarter for the economy, as well as law firms. When the universe closes a door, it is also known for opening a window. For those who capitalize on these opportunities, success is bound to follow.

ALA:And now back to a few crucial questions about yourself ... What is your greatest accomplishment?

LORI: My greatest accomplishment has been giving back to the community through volunteering and donations.

ALA:I understand you were recently recognized as one of seven "Tribute to Working Women" in the Washington, D.C. metro area by WJLA-ABC Channel 7. That must have been a flattering experience?

LORI: It was incredibly flattering and unexpected. I try very hard to fuel my corporate responsibilities as a part of the success I have enjoyed with my business. I feel like I am the winner every time I work with those less fortunate.

ALA:What charities do you see LPI working with this year?

LORI: We will continue to work with the American Heart Association and the Lawyers Have Heart 10K Run-scheduled for June 13, in Georgetown. We will also work with Gilda's Club, Suited for Change, the National Breast Cancer Coalition, Habitat for Humanity and the Grahman Road Elementary School Supply Drive to name a few of my favorites.

ALA:What do you expect to be doing ten years from now?

LORI: I have a couple of things planned for ten years from now ... but it's a secret. Stay tuned ...

ALA:OK, now for some really pressing questions. What is your favorite movie?

LORI: "Ordinary People"

ALA:What was the last book you read?

LORI: "Twilight". I couldn't resist this book. It has received justifiable accolades from the public, and I was thoroughly engaged while reading it.

ALA:What time do you get up in the morning?

LORI: 5 a.m.-it's the only time I can exercise and grab a coffee without interruption!